Gemotions

"Absolutely amazing, darling! Just *divine*!" Mrs. Peterson gushed, waving a forkful of the casserole towards her friend, a gleam in her eye. Sarah plastered on a smile, feeling it stretch thin across her face. The luncheon was in full swing. But, each compliment, each delighted "Oh, this is simply the best," from a guest, seemed to tighten the already rigid muscles in her shoulders. The recipe, the "Heavenly Harvest Casserole," was clearly *her* "Mama's Comfort Bake" from the church cookbook – a recipe she had shared during a potluck a year ago. She picked at the food on her plate, the once vibrant flavors now tasting like ash.